What are the rules for replacing windows in an HDB flat?

HDB window replacement: who can do it

Only a BCA approved window contractor can replace the windows in your flat. HDB's window works guidelines say all window installation or replacement work must be done by a BCA Approved Window Contractor listed in HDB's directory. A renovation permit from HDB is required for all window replacement work, and the contractor applies for it. The guidelines also remind you that, as a flat owner or occupant, you are responsible for the upkeep of the windows in your flat.

BCA's window safety page adds detail on who does the work. Replacing windows needs an approved window contractor registered with BCA under workhead RW01, and a trained window installer. So ask any company two questions: is it registered under workhead RW01, and will a trained window installer carry out the installation?

If a renovation contractor or handyman offers to take care of your windows as part of a bigger job, ask whether the window work itself will be done by an approved window contractor. Ask for the answer, and who will apply for the renovation permit, to be written into the quote.

What HDB allows

HDB's window works guidelines set limits on what a window replacement can change, and list some related works that need no permit:

• Replacing full height windows, including 3/4 height and bay windows, is not allowed.
• New windows must match the existing colour scheme, proportion and type.
• Films over window or balcony door glass need no permit if they are non-reflective or do not exceed 20% reflectance, as the window works guidelines state.
• Blinds, bamboo chicks and curtain rails installed internally need no permit.

Because of the matching rule, ask the contractor to confirm in the quote that the new windows will keep the existing colour scheme, proportion and type.

HDB's important information on renovations sets out disallowed window and grille works. They include replacing full height, 3/4 height or bay windows, and removing or tampering with safety railings or grilles (internal and external) originally provided by HDB or developers.

Grilles and the handover split

HDB's window works guidelines give a grilles rule that depends on when your flat was handed over. Internal metal grilles of any design at windows and the balcony parapet need no permit. For flats handed over before mid-2007, metal grilles must be fixed internally and cannot protrude from the building facade. Grilles at the service yard or balcony parapet need a permit, and for flats handed over from mid-2007 onwards they must also be of HDB-approved designs, shown in the renovation factsheet or on MyHDBPage. The guidelines do not mention invisible grilles by name.

So before you decide between invisible or traditional grilles, find out when your flat was handed over. Then ask the contractor which part of the rule applies, where the grilles would be fixed and whether a permit is needed for your design.

If you are planning grilles and new windows together, settle both with your contractors before any work starts. For more common questions on this part of your home, see the windows and doors FAQ.

The permit, the report and the quote

HDB's windows page explains what happens around the job. The contractor submits the window permit application to HDB, and you can check its status on MyHDBPage. Within 14 days of completing the works, the contractor submits the window report(s) to BCA and should give you the report(s) at no extra charge. Keep a copy. If the contractor refuses to rectify loose or missing parts, inform BCA.

HDB's windows page also points out that engaging a window contractor is a private arrangement. Before you agree to anything, note the type and extent of work and all chargeable costs, compare quotes from more than one contractor and study the terms. What you pay depends on the job, so compare quotes for the same scope of work.

To weigh them up, read how to compare quotes and try the quote comparison tool.

Keeping the new windows safe

HDB's windows page asks you to check your windows once every 6 months for loose or worn-out parts. Home owners can be fined or jailed if a window falls through lack of maintenance.

BCA's window safety page gives homeowners three steps to remember: check, clean, change. For what to look at during a check, see the guide to window safety inspection.

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